04/16/2010

Riddle Me This - Flash You Thus

Most of those that read the post yesterday and commented were on the right path. I loved the different directions that people took - especially Tony's idea of the device being a security system. The product in question is called the Flashbak. The picture below is a GIF from their web site. I will be taking some pictures and commenting on my experiences sometime soon.

I guess my first comment is that I am kind of intimidated by the thing. When I reviewed the Bike Brightz product, it took me like 2 minutes to scope a spot and zip tie the thing on. The Flashbak is going to take a bit more thought, but I most likely see myself using it just like in the sample picture. I can't really see myself strapping it onto my back, but time will tell. If you have experience with the product and want to submit your own reviews, free free to give us a shout out. And if anyone was inspired by the review of the Bike Brightz product and bought one, we'd love to hear from you too.

It seems like a very LARGE blinking doodad. Is there any advantage to have the LEDs spread out in a square pattern like that? I'm doubtful that this makes it too much more effective than a much smaller source of LED dazzlement.

I use a FlashBak everyday on my commute to and from work. I've had it on both my backpack and on panniers too. I've done some distance testing with some friends a while back and the Flashbak is more visible at long distances than my PlanetBike SuperFlash....I think because it is larger in size. The amber light is also easier to see than red, in fog and moist conditions. I really dig the lighted switch...I always know when my back lights are on. I don't have to ride along and look in passing windows for a blinking light on my back. I dig my FlashBak, and I'm curious to see what you think of it too.

I hate wires, I think I might hate clips more, so I don't see the point of this product, unless you had a license plate to adorn. I'll stick with my PB superflash, the best blinky I have ever had, and I like me some blinkies!